The graduate program in computer science prepares students for careers in industry and provides additional instruction for professionals. Additionally, the program prepares students with strong research interests for entry into PhD programs at other universities. A set of practical courses builds on the knowledge gained from undergraduate coursework in computer science.

Students work individually with an advisor to create a program plan in an area of personal interest. The faculty specializes in areas such as databases and data mining, computational linguistics, GIS, computer graphics, game programming, distributed systems, Internet application, computer security, and forensics. With proper planning, it is possible to graduate in one year, although many students take longer. We offer evening classes that enable working students to complete the degree requirements with minimal impact to their busy schedules.

Graduate students have opportunities to engage in research and help the department in a variety of ways. Assistantships providing tuition and a stipend are available.

Admission Requirements

Students must meet SOU admission criteria and then be approved by the department for admission to the graduate program. Applications are reviewed on an ongoing basis. More details are available in this catalog under University admission policies. The department evaluates applications on the basis of the following:

1. undergraduate GPA;
2. GRE general test scores;
3. three letters of recommendation from faculty;
4. a statement of objectives; and
5. undergraduate preparation in computer science.

We welcome and encourage students with backgrounds in other disciplines. The prerequisites to enter the program are as follows:

1. CS 258 - Computer Science III
    
2. CS 336 - Networks I
    
3. CS 360 - Databases
    

Students without these prerequisites may still apply for admission. Admission can be approved as soon as the prerequisites are met with satisfactory grades.

Degree Requirements

All students must complete a minimum of 45 credits of approved graduate coursework. These must include the following:

1. Three graduate-level courses in the Computer Science Department for a total of 12 credits.
2. From 23 to 36 graduate credits taken within the Computer Science Department. These may include cross-listed courses.
3. From 9 to 22 graduate credits from support-area departments. These may include cross-listed courses. Support-area departments are those approved by a student’s graduate advisor.
4. Complete either a project or a thesis. Both require a successful defense before a graduate committee of at least three faculty members chosen by the student and one appointed by the graduate council.